Convert MHT to JPEG in Java

What is MHT file format?

MHT, short for MHTML (MIME HTML), is a web archive format developed by Microsoft for saving web pages, including images, audio and videos. It combines HTML content, images and other media into a single file, which can be shared and viewed in a web browser either online or offline. The files are compressed in the same way as ZIP files and use the .mht extension. The MHT file format is sometimes used as an alternative to PDF documents, as it allows all the web page elements to be preserved, as well as access to external content such as images and videos. It also offers a degree of protection from malicious content as the MHT file can be scanned for viruses before opening. MHT files provide an easy way to share web content without relying on a web server, or without losing any of the formatting information or embedded multimedia in the original web page. This makes them particularly useful for preserving webpages and sharing them with others, either through email or file sharing services.

What is JPEG file format?

JPEG, short for Joint Photographic Experts Group, represents a lossy compression algorithm meticulously crafted to minimize the storage size of digital images. Renowned for its widespread usage in still images and graphics, it holds a prominent position on the web and in digital cameras. Operating on the principle of content analysis, JPEG meticulously measures and evaluates the image’s content before proceeding to compress it, thereby reducing the overall file size. The level of compression can be adjusted to cater to the desired image quality. While JPEG compression typically yields images with lower quality, it achieves remarkably small file sizes, rendering it perfect for online photo sharing.

JPEG’s exceptional popularity is primarily attributed to its ability to strike a balance between image quality and file size. By employing lossy compression techniques, JPEG effectively eliminates certain visual information that may not be noticeable to the human eye. This selective discarding of data ensures substantial reduction in file size while preserving the overall visual integrity to an acceptable level. Consequently, JPEG files are compact and highly efficient in terms of storage and transmission, making them ideal for web-based applications where bandwidth and storage limitations are prevalent.

The adjustable nature of JPEG compression further enhances its versatility. Users have the flexibility to determine the trade-off between file size and image quality by adjusting the compression settings. In scenarios where high image fidelity is of paramount importance, a lower compression level can be selected to preserve intricate details and minimize visual artifacts. Conversely, when the emphasis is on minimizing file size without significant loss in perceived quality, a higher compression level can be applied. This adaptability allows users to tailor the JPEG compression to their specific requirements, ensuring an optimal balance between file size and image quality.

It is noteworthy that while JPEG excels in the realm of digital image compression, it may not be the most suitable choice for all scenarios. Due to its lossy nature, repeatedly compressing and decompressing JPEG files can result in a cumulative loss of image quality. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution and refrain from excessive re-compression if preserving the highest possible image fidelity is paramount.